The 26th annual Philadelphia Film Festival kicks off October 19-29 with the showing of I, Tonya and ends with Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri. Executive Director J. Andrew Greenblatt says "The Festival will once again offer a dramatic range of content, from highly-anticipated, Oscar-buzzworthy films, to diverse, challenging, and educational narrative and documentary films from all over the globe. With the PFS On Us free ticketing program returning again alongside our Festival Field Trip program that exposes students to curated Festival content, we continue to make the Festival accessible to and enjoyed by all. The non-profit turned 365 day a year organization it is today, The festival will celebrate curators, writers, directors, staff, and actors. Numerous events will take place in between and after movie showings. Director J. Andrew Greenblatt thanks the PFS Board Chairman Emeritus Jack Adler. Jack held the position of PFS Board Chairman from 2008 until this past winter. Jack was critical in helping successfully guiding the organization over this period. I thank him for his time and dedication to PFS. He also acknowledged PFS Board of Directors, including new Board chairman Larry Korman, M. Night Shyamalan, the Festival Advisory committee, and our PFS Members for their continued support. Fantastic sponsors, including our Presenting Sponsors AKA, Jefferson Health, and Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Jefferson, as well as our Official Sponsors 6ABC, Comcast XFinity, iHeartMedia, and Philadelphia Style Magazine. Finally, but perhaps most importantly, there would be no Festival without the incredibly hardworking PFS Staff, and the hundreds of volunteers that dedicate their time to making the Festival run. On Monday October 23, 2017 Bruce Willis will receive the 2nd Annual Lumière Award at the 26th Philadelphia Film Festival on Monday, October 23rd at Washington Square. The Lumière Award, named in honor of the first filmmakers Auguste and Louise Lumière, is given to those that have demonstrated a passion for the furtherance of the art form and industry of filmmaking in Philadelphia. Director M. Night Shyamalan, the Lumière Award’s inaugural recipient, will present the award to Bruce Willis in honor of his dedication to film in Philadelphia. Bruce Willis’ contribution to Philadelphia film includes roles in Twelve Monkeys, The Sixth Sense, and Unbreakable, in addition to his current work on M. Night Shyamalan’s upcoming Glass, the highly anticipated sequel to Split. Several other notable guests are scheduled to attend the festival including Princess Cyd director Stephen Cone, Mobile Homes director Vladimir de Fontenay, 11/8/16 filmmaker Jeff Deutchman, AlphaGo director Greg Kohs, At The Drive-in director Alexander Monelli, Flesh and Blood director Mark Webber, and The Florida Project director Sean Baker. Director Roman J. Israel, Esq.was also added to the line up. More guests will be announced. For a full list of films , events, ticket purchases, and more visit www.filmadelphia.org

Where my girls at ? Yes, we could all use a vacation but for now we're heading to the movies. Universal Pictures present the new feature film "Girls Trip" starring Regina Hall, Queen Latifah , Tiffany Haddish , and Jada Pinkett Smith. I'm loving this cast already . There's so much beauty , power and one things for sure we are bound for some much needed smiles and laughter. I remember hearing about this movie being filmed ( I wanted to be apart of it sooo bad ) and I literally could not wait for its release. So of course with glamorous queens like this , we're also in for some appearances from handsome male co-stars including Larenz Tate, Kofi Siriboe, Mike Epps , Diddy , and so many more. we are definitely in for a treat with this film. The film is directed by Malcolm. D. Lee and written by Kenya Barris, Karen McCullah , Tracy Oliver and Erica Rivinoja. Aren't you excited ladies ? The cast also looked beautiful on the cover of the July issue of Essence magazine. so grab your girls ,sisters, and special ladies in your life and head to the theater to see "Girls Trip."

Film Synopsis : When four lifelong friends travel to New Orleans for the annual Essence Festival, sisterhoods are rekindled, wild sides are rediscovered, and there's enough dancing, drinking, brawling, and romancing to make the Big Easy blush.

Just in time for Mother's Day "Snatched" opens in theaters nation-wide on May 12, 2017 . The new film directed by Jonathan Levin and written byKatie Dippold will definitely make you laugh. The film is produced by Peter Chernin , Jenno Topping , Paul Feig , and Jessie Henderson.The soundtrack by Theodore Shapiro and Chris Bac0n features "Put Your Hands Up" by Photonrique, a track from M.I.A and more .The star-studded cast includes Amy Schumer, Goldie Hawn, Joan Cusack, Ike Barinholtz, Wanda Sykes, Christopher Meloni. So grab your mother , grandmom, aunt, sister , or best friend and head to the theaters to see "Snatched".

SYNOPSIS

After her boyfriend dumps her on the eve of their exotic vacation, impetuous dreamer Emily Middleton (Amy Schumer) persuades her ultra-cautious mother, Linda (Goldie Hawn) to travel with her to paradise. Polar opposites, Emily and Linda realize that working through their differences as mother and daughter - in unpredictable, hilarious fashion - is the only way to escape the wildly outrageous jungle adventure they have fallen into.

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A wedding is suppose to be a day of celebration , joy , and happiness. Unfortunately the "BIG DAY" doesn't go as planned due to unimaginable disasters, simple misunderstandings, and unforseen circumstances. Who knows , maybe the pictures and the wedding video will end up on the internet , go viral , and maybe get you a spot on TV or rank up money dollars in the bank. There's some good in bad after all , right? The new Fox Searchlight film "TABLE 19" directed by Jeffrey Blitz, and written by Jerry and Mark Duplass stars Anna Kendrick, Craig Robinson, June Squibb, Lisa Kudrow , Stephen Mechant ,and Toni Revolori is all about unexpected mishaps, love , friendships, and cleverness. Ex-maid of honor Eloise (Anna Kendrick) - having been relieved of her duties after being unceremoniously dumped by the best man via text - decides to hold her head up high and attend her oldest friend's wedding anyway. She finds herself seated at the 'random' table in the back of the ballroom with a disparate group of strangers, most of whom should have known to just send regrets (but not before sending something nice off the registry). As everyone's secrets are revealed, Eloise learns a thing or two from the denizens of Table 19. Friendships - and even a little romance - can happen under the most unlikely circumstances. "TABLE 19" opens in theaters
March 3, 2017 .

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The second film installment of the Fifty Shades trilogy is here. The "Fifty Shades Darker" movie officially opened in theaters world wide today February 10,2017. If you've read the books written by author
E.L James and saw "Fifty Shades of Grey" you are definitely in for an erotic and mysterious movie going experience . The film starring Dakota Johnson as "Anastasia Steele" and Jamie Dornan as "Christian Grey" is completely intriguing and you don't want to miss any of this dazzling yet steamy thrill ride full of twist and turns directed by James Foley and written by Niall Leonard . I attended a private screening of the film and let's just say its quite a sensuous and enthralling. The cast also includes Rita Ora, Robinne Lee, Isabella Heathcote,and Victor Rasuk to name a few. So here are five reasons why you should go see "Fifty Shades Darker" this weekend

1. suspenseful

if you are a little thrill seeker and you need just a smidge of suspense then this is the film for you! So if you've been waiting around for a film to catch your eye then head to the theaters to see "Fifty Shades Darker" .

2. date night

With Valentines Day in four days "fifty Shades Darker" is definitely an interesting movie to see for date night. So definitely add a trip to the movie to your valentines day plans. If you're single and want to avoid the V-day crowd grab your friends and have a friends night out and go see a it. Don't forget the popcorn.

3. if you love the "fifty shades of grey" trilogy

if you were one of those people that couldn't get your head out of the book, you set reminders for release dates, or you were at the bookstore early to get your copy then you'll love the second film. If you didn't read the book but enjoyed the first installment film and you love Christian and Anastasia then get going! You will definitely gasp a few times and indulge in some laughter while watching.

4.SUPER STEAMY

So Christian Grey is into a lot of various questionable pleasures. As in the book there are some very shocking moments in the world of Mr.Grey. So the film doesn't fail to bring his fetishes to life. So if you're heading to the movies just know you are in for some surprises .

5. the soundtrack

What's better than watching a good movie? A great soundtrack that is. Fifty Shades Darker the soundtrack features some of your favorite artist. I had to contain myself from singing some of the songs . The soundtrack is out now on all music avenues . So don't forget to check it out.

I remember the first time I saw Allen Iverson play at the Spectrum in Philly. My whole family decided to go to the Sixers game. We were in the nose bleeds (laugh) but all I know is Allen Iverson was on the floor and he was doing his thing. Growing up A.I was everybody's favorite . Everywhere you went you saw A.I jerseys , kids imitating his moves, and folk even had his signature cornrow style . A.I "The Answer" has always and will always be an inspiration and a history making , dream catching, athlete that has motivated so many to never give up. On May 16, 2015 Allen is releasing the "Iverson Movie" on Showtime . You definitely don't want to miss it. So follow him on Instagram @TheOfficialAI3 and #IversonWatchParty so he'll know that you will be tuned in.

Are you excited about "Fantastic Four" ? The action packed Sci-Fi film based on Marvel's original comic book . I am !!! The movie is about four young outsiders whom teleport to an alternate dangerous universe which alters their physical form and gives them superhero abilities . F4 releases August 7, 2015 world wide. MJB takes on the role of "Johnny Storm" whom can engulf his entire body in fire and he can also control fire. The film is directed by Josh Trank. One things for sure this role is going to be straight fire , the cast is amazing, and everyone can agree that Michael .B. Jordan is definitely a hot commodity. So MJB get your flame on and continue to be the trailblazer that you are #HumanTorch style!

﻿1. TRAILBLAZER﻿

Actor Michael. B. Jordan is truly an sensational . I can't wait until the day we all see him give his first of many Oscar acceptance speeches with his heart warming smile. There's no doubt about it , that this young man works hard and definitely deserves numerous awards, tons of congratulations and applause, and don't forget for everyone to go see him on the big screen. He is superb and absolutely fantastic , and here's four reasons why.

﻿2. POWERFUL﻿

Its just something special about him when you see him on screen . He's super captivating and makes you feel his character. In the new Rocky spin-off "CREED" which releases in November , MJB plays Apollo Creed's son Adonis whom comes to Philadelphia to be trained by Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stalone). Michael worked really hard along side real life Celebrity trainer Corey Calliet to get his body toned up for his role as Adonis. The movie also stars the beautiful Tessa Thompson . This is going to be huge considering its the 40th anniversary of the Rocky .
MJB trained super duper hard for this film directed by the incredible Ryan Coogler whom also directed "Fruitvale Station" in which MJB portrayed 22 year old Oscar Grant whom was fatally and wrongfully murdered by a police officer in Oakland, California on January 1, 2009. Michael has the ability to be very compelling.He's definitely in a league of his own and he's going for the win. He's powerful, influential and strong!

﻿3.BOLD﻿

A lot of times people are scared to stand up for what they wholeheartedly believe in because they fear how others will judge them, their career, or they don't feel others will believe in their cause. When "Fruitvale Station" was released it showed how blatant young black males are killed by police on the big screen . We see it in the news all the time but its rarely shown in a film. Ryan Coogler deciding to share a story that not only was real but one that hit so close to home and pulled on so many heart strings globally was epic and unforgettable. To have Michael a black male whom is so close to the age of Oscar take on this role and bring life to Oscar's story so truthfully and honestly was mind blowing. The film showed you how much MJB is willing to stand up , make some changes, and take on roles that are daring, mind provoking, important , and challenging. He is also apart of the non-profit "Blackout". Blackoutis a network of filmmakers, spiritual leaders, musicians, advocates and more whom stand up for victims whose human rights are violated in the USA. You can find out more about "BlackOut" on www.blackoutforhumanrights.com. ﻿﻿﻿﻿﻿As a young man to stand up for human rights, for justice, for equality, for change, and for peace is inspiring and bold and we definitely need more people like him in today's world!

Oscar Grant

Ryan Coogler & Michael B Jordan

4. ﻿HE'S THE MAN﻿

Michael.B. Jordan is the man to watch! 2015 is going to be an amazing year for him. So far he has two major films releasing and I'm sure he has some more epic things to come. Over all he's the true definition of an actor with versatility, a human with a heart, and a mind with big dreams . Whether he's making you laugh in a film such as "That Awkward Moment" or making you shed tears , Michael . B. Jordan is definitely the one to watch. He's stylish, handsome, assiduous, and he's the man.
P.S . I met Michael.B. Jordan and Ryan Coogler on the set of "CREED" in Philly as a background actor thanks to Heery Casting of Philadelphia . To see them in action is marvelous and exciting. Congratulations and much success! Flammmeeee On! Now I'm thinking an interview would be perfect!!
So follow him on
Twitter @MichaelB4JordanInstagram @MichaelBJordan

Focus please, its game time! On February 23, 2015 I attended a private screening for the comedic, drama, crime film "FOCUS". The movie stars Will Smith as "Nicky" and Margot Robbie as "Jess" . FOCUS will teach you to pay attention to everything you learn, watch who you trust, to be aware of your surroundings and remember to be quick but also remember to take your time. Its a fast paced world and you have to be good and think on your toes. Will Smith and his co-star Margot are fiery and sexy together and their relationship will keep you guessing. I really enjoyed this film and I definitely will go see it again. If you are into taking risks and challenging games, this is the movie for you. These two movers and shakers will definitely play on your emotions as well as your thinking skills. You don't want to play against them or do you ? Remember don't blink for a second you might lose. Go see this movie written and directed by Glenn Fecarra and John Requa this weekend if you are a true thrill seeker at heart. Don't forget to Tweet, Instagram, and Facebook #FOCUS .

On December 29,2012 at 4:14 A.M I finished Tyrese Gibson’s first book “How To Get Out Of Your Own Way”. The book truly changed my life forever. So I posted a blog about how I felt and at the end of it I said “ I can’t wait to see the film you direct in the future”. Well the future is now ! Mogul, singer, writer, and actor Tyrese Gibson will be the exec producer of “Desert Eagle” through Voltron Filmz. Tyrese and producer, director, and screenwriter Mike Le wrote the action script however the two hired Matthew Stuecken and Josh Campbell to rewrite it. Scott Stuber will produce the film alongside Jerome Martin. The film Desert Eagle is about a pair of border patrol agents whom investigate a drug cartel being operated out of a Native American reservation casino. The 17 or 18 year old teenager that walked up to film director John Singleton at a Hollywood party and told him “ I’m a movie star and I’m gonna work with you one day” is now a hardworking successful man that has starred in John Singleton’s film “Baby Boy” and eighteen other feature films. Including the Fast & Furious films in which he plays the super fly, stylish, and energetic Roman. Fast & Furious 6, grossed $788 million worldwide. Roman returns in Furious 7 which debuts in theaters April 3,2015. Tyrese will also star in Southpaw with Jake Gyllenhaal and Ride Along 2 alongside comedian Kevin Hart and Ice Cube. Tyrese Gibson said in his book “ You have to not only fall in love with yourself, you also have to fall in love with your own ideas.” I’m so glad Tyrese fell in love with his ideas. His double album “Black Rose” will be released May 5,2014. You never know where your ideas can lead you. Tyrese Gibson’s just sold his idea “Desert Eagle” to Universal Pictures. So I guess I can say now “I can’t wait to attend the premiere or get a role.” Congratulations Tyrese its time to celebrate #TeamVoltron style!

﻿300 : Rise Of An Empire ﻿(3D) Will Keep You On The Edge Of Your Seat From Beginning To End . Earlier This Evening I Attended The PA Screening Of The New Noam Murro Film. The Movie Stars Sullivan Stapleton And Eva Green. 300 : Rise Of An Empire Will Fulfill Your Love For Drama, Combat, And A Good Story. The Movie Was Great. I Thought The Casting, The Scenery, And The Graphics Were Excellent And So Realistic. The Movie Officially Releases March 7, 2014. Check Out The Trailer Below .

Season XIII Of American Idol Is Going To Rock. Last Night I Attended The Exclusive Philadelphia Premiere Of American Idol . This Exclusive Premiere Debut In Various Cities Across The United States. The Theater Was Filled With Exciting American Idol Fans From The Tri-State. The Judges For This Season Are Country Musician/Songwriter/Guitarist Keith Urban , Music Mogul Jennifer Lopez, And Singer/Actor/Composer Harry Connick, Jr. And The Show Is Hosted By Ryan Seacrest. The Theater Was Buzzing With Excitement For The New Show. Upon Entering The Theater Everyone Received Some Cool American Idol Gear ( Hat, T Shirt, And Bag All Embedded With The Official American Idol Logo) Along With Popcorn And Soda. Buster And Kacie McDowell Of Wired 96.5 Hosted The Philadelphia Premiere. Soon It Was Time For The Show To Start! I'm Not Going To Give Any Spoilers, However You Are Going To Love This Seasons Contestants. You Are Also In For Good Laughs, Good Music, And Great Judges. Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban, And Harry Connick, Jr Fit Together So Well And They're Super Entertaining, Fun, And HOT! So American Idol Lovers Tune In Tonight For American Idol XIII 8 EST/ PT . The Judges Also Sat Down For A Live Q And A Hosted By Ryan Seacrest To Answer Questions From Twitter, Facebook, And Various Cities Where The Show Exclusively Debut. Tonight Is The Night For American Idol , And Trust You Don't Want To Miss It! Don't Forget To #AmericanIdol !!

The Brilliant Poet And LeaderLangston Hughes Once Said“Oh, God Of Dust And Rainbows, Help Us To See That Without The Dust The Rainbow Would Not Be.” . These Words Symbolize That No Matter What You Go Through In Life , It Makes You Stronger And Shine Brighter. This Lesson Amongst Many Taught Through The Works Of Langston Hughes Are To Be Cherished And Embedded In Our Minds. If You Are Unfamiliar With Whom Mr.Langston Hughes Is, Learn More About Him(Here). "Black Nativity" Is A Musical Drama Film Written And Directed By Kasi Lemmons Based On The 1960's Langston Hughes Play "Black Nativity" . Last Night (11/20/2013) I Attended The Philadelphia Private Screening Of The Film. My Soul Was Touched By The Music , The Story, And The Famous Quotes By Mr. Langston Hughes. The Cast : Jacob Latimore, Tyrese Gibson, Nasir Jones, Jennifer Hudson, Rotimi, Angela Bassett, Forest Whitaker, Grace Gibson, Luke James And Mary. J. Blige All Gave Remarkable Performances. The Cast Brought A New Life To The Famous Words Of Such An Astonishing Poet/Playwright . On November 27,2013 Make Sure You Are In The Theater To See "Black Nativity". Order Your Advanced Tickets (Here). Also Get The Official Soundtrack For The Film On iTunes (Here). The Film Is Amazing! Celebrate Thanksgiving With Your Love Ones And Make Sure You See "Black Nativity".

Am I The Only One Patiently AwaitingMichael .B. Jordan's Oscar Nomination For His Epic Performance As Oscar Grant In The Heart-Touching And Must See Film, "Fruitvale Station". Michael Is An Incredible And Powerful Actor That Is Vital To The Acting World. At 26 Years Old He Has A Solid Resume , Listed From TV Series To Movies, Also A Video Game Voice Over, And Assistant Producing. I Personally Would Love To See Michael.B.Jordan On TV A Lot More , Wouldn't You? Well Its Official You Can Catch Him On Screen Again In The Upcoming Film "That Awkward Moment" Written By Tom Gormican , Starring Miles Teller And Zac Efron. The Movie Is About Three Best Friends Whom Are Each At Different Confusing Dating/Relationship Phases Of There Lives. The Film Is Set To Release January 2014. So Hopefully MBJ Will Be On Our Screens Before Then. So Lets All Pray He Gets That Oscar Nomination And Takes Home The Award , He Absolutely Deserves It. Follow Michael On Twitter @MichaelB4Jordan And Go See "Fruitvale Station".

After Its Theater Debut January 18,2013 , Director Sheldon Candis "LUV" The Film Is Finally Premiering On BET . The Heart Touching Film Stars Common, Micheal Rainey Jr, Meagan Good,Danny Glover, Charles.S. Dutton, And Micheal Kenneth. The Cast Is Amazing And This Is A Must See Film. So Gather Your Family And Friends And Watch "LUV" Tonight August 7th 9P/8C. For More On The Film Visit (Here) And Visit www.luvthefilm.com

CHECK OUT THE FIRST AND FINAL "FAST 6" FINAL TRAILER TRAILER

In Life At One Point Or Another A Young Male Faces A Time Where He Must Choose Become A Man.Will He Love The Streets Or Love Himself ? In The New Film "Luv" By Sheldon Candis, He Brings That "Coming Of Age" Story To Life . In The Film An 11 Year Old Boy (Woody Watson) Played By "Micheal Rainey Jr" Grows Up In A Suburban Home In Baltimore. His Mother Is In Rehab, His Father Is No Where To Be Found, So He Is Being Raised By His Grandmother. After 8 Years In Prison His Uncle Vincent Played By "Common" Whom Woody Idolizes Is Now Trying To Straighten Up And Set A Good Example .Vincent Opens A Crab- Shack And Hopes That Will Establish Him And Take Him To New Levels. However Vincent Gets Caught Up In The Streets Again And His Nephew Woody Has To Choose Whether He'll Continue To Follow His Uncle's Foot Steps Or Become A Man & Walk A Path Of His Own. The Film Also Has Performances From Meagan Good , Danny Glover, Charles.S. Dutton, And Micheal Kenneth Williams. This Heart Touching Story Debut In Theaters January 18,2013.